Newsletter Issue #492

                                 

Entrepreneur & Author
JeffCorbett.com

              

Success Begins Within

“The connection between a healthy mind, an active body and a purposeful life.”

——- 

I’ve come to believe that success, whether in business or in life, depends on three important elements working together: mind, body and spirit. We spend a great deal of time measuring success through financial accomplishments, professional recognition and material possessions, but perhaps the most valuable assets we possess are the ones we carry within ourselves. A disciplined mind helps us make better decisions, a healthy body provides the energy to pursue our ambitions, and a sense of spiritual purpose gives those ambitions meaning. Spirituality doesn’t necessarily have to mean organized religion. It can be faith, gratitude, personal values or simply believing that our lives should stand for something beyond ourselves. According to the American Psychological Association, regular physical activity can support mental health, while research by psychologist Michael Steger and his colleagues has linked a greater sense of meaning in life with higher levels of psychological well-being. None of these qualities guarantees success, but together they can provide a stronger foundation for pursuing it.

This week’s edition of Global Common Cents reflects that philosophy in several interesting ways. We explore why discipline can actually create personal freedom, why entrepreneurs should think of themselves as athletes, and why protein and the right carbohydrates matter as we age. We also examine America’s growing generational wealth divide, the etiquette of unanswered messages, and the possibility of starting a new chapter in Europe. For a little enjoyment, we’re firing up the autumn grill and celebrating the renewed appeal of classic automobiles. There is certainly a place in life for ambition, hard work and financial security, but there must also be room for relationships, reflection and a little fun. Perhaps the real measure of success isn’t simply what we’ve accumulated, but whether we’ve developed the physical strength, mental clarity and inner peace to enjoy what we’ve accomplished.

That’s a definition of success worth pursuing at any age.

Hope you enjoy this issue.

Jeff Corbett

Publisher | Global Common Cents

• To review other editions of our newsletter please see our website: GlobalCommonCents.com
• For more about my personal wonderings please see my blog: JeffCorbett.com

Discipline is the Foundation of Personal Freedom

“The surprising connection between self-control, independence and living life on your own terms.”

——- 

We tend to think of personal freedom as the ability to do whatever we want, whenever we want. But what if genuine freedom comes from having the discipline to occasionally say no? Whether it involves managing our finances, maintaining our health, controlling our emotions or simply keeping our commitments, personal discipline creates choices that impulsive behavior can quietly take away. Author James Clear explores this idea in his bestselling book Atomic Habits, emphasizing how small, consistent behaviors help shape our identity and produce meaningful long-term improvements. Psychiatrist Viktor Frankl offered a deeper perspective in his classic Man’s Search for Meaning, arguing that even under extraordinarily difficult circumstances, individuals can retain a measure of freedom in how they respond to life’s challenges. Both authors, approaching the subject from very different experiences, remind us that freedom isn’t simply about having options. It’s also about developing the character and self-control to make the most of them.

Interestingly, psychology offers evidence supporting the value of self-discipline. A landmark 2011 study led by Duke University psychologist Terrie Moffitt, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, followed approximately 1,000 individuals from childhood into adulthood and found that stronger childhood self-control was associated with better physical health, financial outcomes and fewer substance-dependence problems by age 32. Although the research was observational and doesn’t establish that discipline alone caused these outcomes, the findings reinforce an important principle. The person who exercises regularly has a better opportunity to preserve physical independence. The individual who saves consistently builds greater financial flexibility. And someone who learns to pause before reacting emotionally may protect relationships that matter most. None of this requires perfection, only consistency and a willingness to think beyond immediate gratification. Perhaps that’s the great paradox of personal freedom: The more responsibility we take for our daily choices, the less likely we are to become prisoners of our habits.

The Takeaway: Personal discipline isn’t the opposite of freedom; it’s one of the most powerful tools we have for creating it.

Everyone is an Athlete

“Physical fitness may be one of the most overlooked assets in business.” 

——-

There is an old saying that if you have a body, you are an athlete. You don’t have to run marathons, lift heavy weights or compete on a playing field to appreciate the message. Your body is the vehicle that carries you through life, and taking care of it should be a priority, particularly if you’re an entrepreneur. Running a business requires energy, endurance, mental clarity and the ability to handle stress. Sound familiar? Those are many of the same qualities we admire in successful athletes. According to the World Health Organization, regular physical activity supports cardiovascular health, cognitive function and mental well-being. The lesson for business owners is simple: you cannot separate the demands you place on your mind from the care you give your body. Walking, strength training, swimming or simply moving throughout the day isn’t time stolen from your business. It’s an investment in your ability to perform.

There is also something to be said about the way you carry yourself when you walk into a room. Being physically fit is a special kind of currency. Not necessarily financial currency, but the quiet confidence that comes from knowing you’ve made an effort to take care of yourself. Good posture, energy and a strong physical presence can influence how you feel when meeting clients, negotiating a deal or addressing a room full of people. Of course, appearances alone tell us little about someone’s actual health, competence or character. But the discipline required to maintain physical fitness can reinforce qualities that serve entrepreneurs well. Research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine has found that physical activity can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety across a wide range of adult populations. And when you feel better physically and mentally, you’re often better prepared to face the inevitable pressures of business ownership. Confidence isn’t something you can purchase, but it is something you can develop.

Finally, there is the old-fashioned notion of pulling yourself up by your bootstraps. Entrepreneurship has never been a guaranteed path to success, and neither is physical fitness. Both require consistency, personal accountability, patience and the willingness to show up when motivation is nowhere to be found. There will be setbacks, disappointing days and mornings when you’d rather stay in bed. Yet the mindset that gets you moving despite those obstacles is remarkably similar to the one that keeps a business owner pursuing an opportunity after hearing the word “no.” Success also depends on circumstances, resources and support from others, but personal discipline remains something worth cultivating. You don’t need to become a professional athlete to develop an athlete’s mindset. You simply need to recognize that your health is among your most valuable business assets. After all, what good is building a successful enterprise if you neglect the very person responsible for running it?

The Takeaway: Treat your body like a business asset, your daily movement like an investment, and your personal discipline like a competitive advantage.

America’s Growing Generational Wealth Divide

“Why rising incomes don’t always translate into greater financial security.”

——-

A growing financial divide between younger and older Americans is raising important questions about how wealth is created and preserved. According to Federal Reserve research highlighted in an October 13 report by Tyler Flores, inflation-adjusted median net worth increased 37% between 2022 and 2025 for families headed by someone age 75 or older, while declining 23% for households headed by someone under 35. The contrast illustrates an important distinction between earning money and accumulating assets. Older households have generally had more years to build retirement savings, purchase homes and benefit from investment growth. Younger families, meanwhile, face the challenge of establishing financial independence while managing housing costs, debt and everyday expenses. The Federal Reserve’s Survey of Consumer Finances has long documented substantial differences in household wealth across age groups, although individual financial circumstances vary considerably.

The larger lesson extends beyond generational comparisons. A higher salary may improve someone’s standard of living, but lasting financial security also depends on savings, investments, debt management and time. Federal Reserve data consistently show that ownership of stocks and other financial assets is concentrated among wealthier households, allowing those with established portfolios to benefit disproportionately when markets appreciate. For younger Americans, building that foundation can be difficult when competing expenses limit their ability to invest. For older generations, the challenge may increasingly involve balancing their own retirement needs with the desire to help children or grandchildren establish financial stability.

The Takeaway: Wealth is not simply a reflection of what we earn today, but what we are able to accumulate, protect and pass along tomorrow.

Please keep in mind this information should not be considered as financial advice. Investment decisions should be based on individual research and consultation with a qualified financial professional. The value of investments can fluctuate, and past performance is not indicative of future results. Always consider your risk tolerance and financial goals before making investment decisions.

When Is It Okay to Ignore a Text?

by Candace Smith
The Etiquette Blog
Candace Smith Etiquette

Biography:  Candace Smith, wife of Nobel Prize-Winner Professor Dr. Vernon Smith and owner of the extraordinary blog, “Etiquette for the Business of Life” as featured by BBC, Chicago Tribune and USA Today offers her insights.

“Knowing when to pause, when to respond, and when silence speaks louder than words.”

——-

We’ve all been there. A message arrives in your inbox or on your phone, and something about it stings. Maybe the tone feels confrontational, or maybe you don’t know what to say. In that moment, it can be tempting to ignore a text or email message altogether.

Sometimes a short pause is exactly the right call. Responding quickly out of hurt or frustration can leave us having said something we later regret. “Always pause” is a wonderful motto. Often the sender will notice the silence and follow up with a clarification that changes the whole conversation.

But a pause and a permanent silence are two very different things.

Why Silence Feels So Loud Today

Most of us carry our phones everywhere and see messages almost as soon as they arrive. That constant connection has quietly changed what we expect. When a reply doesn’t come, we start to wonder, and sometimes worry, about why.

Of course, there are many good reasons someone might not respond right away: a busy workday, a family obligation, or simply needing time to think. Immediate responses aren’t always expected, and what feels “immediate” varies from person to person. If you do reply after a while, a simple “Sorry for my delayed response” goes a long way.

Still, when someone chooses to ignore a text or email message again and again, it can raise questions about the relationship itself. It’s also worth turning the question around: do we ever leave others wondering why we haven’t been in touch?

Pausing to Reflect with Etiquette

At its heart, etiquette is relational. It means being aware of our connection to others and choosing to be engaged, generous, and kind. If you find yourself wanting to set a message aside indefinitely, it can help to ask a few gentle questions:

• Why do I want to ignore this text or email?
• Does this relationship need a change, or a conversation?
• Does staying silent reflect the kind of person I want to be?

Here’s another way to look at it. Imagine passing a friend or coworker in the hallway who asks you a question. Would you keep walking? Most of us wouldn’t. Virtual conversations deserve the same consideration. A reply may be delayed, but no reply at all can leave the other person feeling unimportant or wondering if something is wrong.

When It’s Okay to Ignore a Text or Email Message

There is an important exception. If a message is rude, hostile, or abusive, you are not obligated to engage with it. Choosing not to respond can be a healthy boundary. In those cases, though, it’s wise to think about what else might help resolve the situation. That could mean a conversation, involving someone else, or limiting future contact.

Letting Etiquette Guide Your Response

Etiquette is situational, relational, and contextual. Before responding, or deciding not to, consider:

• What is the situation?
• What is my relationship with this person?
• What circumstances am I in right now?
• Am I relying too much on writing when a phone call or a conversation might help?

We all get busy, and our communication habits sometimes slip. When that happens, there’s grace in owning it. A quick note acknowledging the delay lets people know they matter to you. And if a message was argumentative, it’s perfectly fine to say you needed a moment to collect your thoughts so you could respond well.

Sometimes the Best Reply Isn’t Written

Text and email are convenient, but they can flatten tone and invite misunderstanding. When a written exchange starts to feel tense, a real conversation may be the kindest way forward. Instead of choosing to ignore a text or email message, you might write back something like:

“Our conversation feels a bit off-track. Could we meet up or talk by phone?”

That small invitation can ease tension and make room for real understanding.

The Takeaway: Recommitting to thoughtful communication reminds us, and the people around us, that civility isn’t a thin social veneer. It’s a way of living and working alongside others with care. Like any good habit, it’s worth revisiting from time to time.

Why Protein Isn’t Just for Fitness Influences

by Morayma MaKay
Writer / Blogger & Content Creator
Adulthood Rewired

Biography:  Morayma Makay is a fashion model, mother, and writer.  She has
dedicated the last 20 years to working in the fashion and health fields as
both a researcher and content creator.

“Why getting enough protein becomes increasingly important as we age.”

——-

When you hear the word protein, what comes to mind? A plate of chicken, a carton of eggs, or perhaps someone at the gym drinking a giant shake out of a bottle the size of a small fire extinguisher? I bet a lot of us immediately think of the latter, but while protein certainly has its place in the fitness world, you don’t have to lift weights or spend hours at the gym to benefit from getting enough of it! The truth of the matter is that protein is essential for everyone, and as we get older, paying attention to how much we’re eating becomes particularly important.

Your Body Uses Protein Every Day

Protein does a lot more than help build muscle because your body also uses it to maintain and repair tissues, produce enzymes and hormones, support immune function, and keep muscles working properly. It’s involved in countless processes happening behind the scenes, even when you’re sitting on the couch watching your favorite show. Here’s where age comes into the picture…as we get older, we naturally tend to lose muscle mass and strength, which is a process that can begin earlier than many people realize. This gradual decline can affect balance, mobility, metabolism and the ability to handle everyday activities as the years go by. Getting enough protein helps provide the building blocks your body needs to maintain muscle, and when combined with regular movement and strength-building activities, you’re giving yourself a much better chance of staying strong and independent as you age.

The Problem With Eating Too Little

Many people assume they’re getting plenty of protein, but their meals don’t always tell the same story. Breakfast might be toast and coffee, lunch could be a small salad, and dinner may be the first time they eat a substantial serving of protein all day. This can be especially common as appetites change with age or when busy schedules lead us to grab whatever is convenient, and if you’re trying to eat healthier by cutting back on calories, protein can sometimes get pushed aside without you realizing it. Rather than focusing only on how much food you’re eating, it helps to consider what’s actually on your plate. Are you including a meaningful source of protein with most meals? If not, there’s room for improvement without necessarily eating more food overall!

Easy Ways to Get More Protein In Your Day

The good news is that adding protein doesn’t have to involve meal prepping an entire week’s worth of chicken breasts on Sunday as per all of the popular fitness influencers’ advice! A few small adjustments can make a noticeable difference. Start with breakfast…this is an easy place to make a change. You can swap a breakfast of plain toast for eggs and whole-grain toast, or add Greek yogurt topped with berries and nuts. If you prefer oatmeal, stir in some milk and add a spoonful of nut butter. You can also find protein oats at your favorite grocery store. Of course, you can still have your morning coffee…nobody is taking that away!

When it comes to snacks, instead of reaching for crackers or pretzels on their own, try pairing them with cheese, hummus, or roasted edamame. Cottage cheese, beef or turkey jerky, a handful of nuts, Greek yogurt or a hard-boiled egg are other convenient options, and you can keep a few favorites around so you’re not left rummaging through the pantry when hunger strikes.  For other meals, you can add beans or lentils to soup, toss chickpeas into a salad, sprinkle hemp seeds over oatmeal or yogurt, or add extra eggs to a vegetable scramble. Canned tuna or salmon, rotisserie chicken, tofu, and frozen edamame can make putting together a protein-rich meal much easier as well. A sandwich with tuna, chicken or hummus and a side of yogurt also can be a perfectly easy and protein packed lunch.

How Much Protein Do You Actually Need?

Protein needs really vary depending on body size, activity level, age and health. The basic adult recommended dietary allowance is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight per day, but some experts recommend higher intakes for older adults to help maintain muscle, particularly when combined with resistance exercise. You don’t have to start counting every gram to make progress, but you can begin by looking at your usual meals and identifying one place where a protein source could be added or increased. If you’re very active, have a poor appetite or are concerned about losing muscle, a registered dietitian can help you determine an appropriate target. Protein shakes are also an easy alternative, but you don’t want to rely on just those to get the nutrition you need.

So while protein isn’t a miracle food, and eating more than you need won’t automatically make you look like you’re ready for the next fitness competition…consistently getting enough gives your body the materials it needs to do its job as well as possible. Think of it as maintenance for the body you’re planning to use for many more years, and unlike a complicated diet plan, it can start with something as simple as adding an egg to breakfast or keeping Greek yogurt in the fridge…no shaker bottle required!

The Takeaway:  Protein isn’t just for building muscle — it’s an essential part of healthy aging, and a few simple changes to your daily meals can help you stay stronger, healthier and more active for years to come.

Carbs are not the Enemy

“Why choosing the right carbohydrates may be one of the smartest moves for healthy aging.”

——-

For years, carbohydrates have been blamed for everything from expanding waistlines to rising blood sugar. Low-carb diets have become fashionable, and many Americans have come to believe that avoiding carbohydrates altogether is the secret to better health. But here’s what often gets lost in the conversation: not all carbohydrates are created equal. Our bodies rely on carbohydrates as an important source of energy, particularly for the brain and working muscles. According to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, the quality of carbohydrates matters more than simply the quantity consumed. Whole grains, vegetables, fruits, beans and lentils provide fiber, vitamins, minerals and other beneficial nutrients. By contrast, refined carbohydrates found in white bread, pastries, sugary cereals and many packaged snacks have often been stripped of much of their natural fiber and can contribute to rapid increases in blood sugar.

Where Good Carbs Make a Difference

Some of the healthiest carbohydrates are also among the easiest to incorporate into everyday meals. Oatmeal, quinoa, brown rice, sweet potatoes, berries, apples, chickpeas and black beans are excellent examples. Many provide dietary fiber, which supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar and can contribute to healthier cholesterol levels. According to the American Heart Association, soluble fiber found in foods such as oats and beans can help lower LDL cholesterol, an important consideration as we age. Whole fruits also offer advantages over fruit juices because they retain their natural fiber. And for those who exercise regularly, carbohydrates help replenish muscle glycogen, the stored energy used during physical activity. The key is choosing foods that deliver meaningful nutrition rather than simply empty calories.

Unfortunately, the typical American diet often blurs the distinction between nutritious carbohydrates and highly processed foods. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, ultra-processed foods accounted for approximately 55% of calories consumed by Americans ages one and older during August 2021 through August 2023. Not all processed foods are unhealthy, and not all carbohydrates are beneficial. The real concern is a dietary pattern dominated by refined grains, added sugars and foods lacking sufficient fiber. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020–2025, recommended making at least half of grain consumption whole grains, a practical benchmark for improving carbohydrate quality.

The Takeaway: Longevity isn’t necessarily about eating fewer carbohydrates; it’s about eating better ones. Replace sugary breakfast cereals with oatmeal, refined grains with whole grains and processed snacks with fruit or nuts. Small, consistent improvements in carbohydrate quality can support metabolic and cardiovascular health over time. The goal isn’t to fear carbohydrates, but to understand which ones deserve a regular place on your plate.

Autumn is Made for Grilling!

“Cooler evenings, smoky flavors and a fresh take on seasonal favorites.”

——- 

Who says barbecue season ends with summer? In fact, autumn may be one of the best times to fire up the grill. Cooler temperatures, crisp evenings and seasonal ingredients create the perfect setting for outdoor cooking. Traditional favorites such as slow-smoked brisket, barbecue chicken, pork tenderloin and juicy burgers remain crowd-pleasers, but fall offers opportunities to experiment. Consider apple-cider-glazed pork chops, rosemary-marinated chicken, maple-glazed salmon or grilled turkey burgers topped with caramelized onions. For something different, try grilling butternut squash, sweet potato wedges or Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic and a touch of smoked paprika. These seasonal vegetables bring color, flavor and a little sophistication to the backyard barbecue.

For those looking to keep things healthy without sacrificing taste, the grill offers plenty of possibilities. According to the American Heart Association, choosing lean proteins, incorporating colorful vegetables and limiting sugary sauces and excess sodium are smart approaches to healthier grilling. Salmon, skinless chicken and lean cuts of beef pair beautifully with grilled zucchini, mushrooms and peppers. For a seasonal dessert, try grilled apple slices sprinkled with cinnamon and served alongside a spoonful of Greek yogurt. And remember, according to the USDA, using a food thermometer is essential for ensuring meats reach safe cooking temperatures.

The Takeaway: Don’t put away the barbecue just because summer is over. Autumn grilling combines comfort food, seasonal creativity and healthier choices — with the added pleasure of enjoying a beautiful fall evening.

Classic Cars are the New Status Symbol

“Forget the latest luxury car. Yesterday’s classics are turning heads and bringing people together.”

——-

There was a time when the ultimate symbol of success was a brand-new luxury automobile parked in the driveway. Today, something interesting is happening. A beautifully restored 1964 Corvette, a vintage Porsche 911, or a classic Ford Mustang can attract more attention than a modern luxury sedan costing considerably more. Classic cars offer something money alone cannot manufacture — nostalgia, individuality, craftsmanship, and a connection to automotive history. Hollywood has understood their appeal for decades. Remember Robert Urich as private investigator Dan Tanna in the late-1970s television series Vega$, cruising the Las Vegas Strip in his unmistakable red 1957 Ford Thunderbird convertible? More recently, Colin Farrell brought that same timeless cool to the Apple TV series Sugar, portraying a private detective behind the wheel of a 1966 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray convertible. In both cases, the automobile was more than transportation — it was practically another character in the show.

Perhaps the greatest attraction isn’t the automobile itself, but the social world surrounding it. Across America, weekend Cars & Coffee gatherings, local cruise nights, concours exhibitions, and enthusiast clubs have become popular meeting places for collectors and casual admirers alike. Organizations such as the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) and the Porsche Club of America bring enthusiasts together through regional chapters, driving events, exhibitions, and social activities. Meanwhile, major gatherings such as the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and events during Monterey Car Week celebrate automotive design and history on an international stage. What makes this culture particularly appealing is its accessibility. You don’t need a million-dollar Ferrari to participate. A lovingly maintained Chevrolet Bel Air, early Ford Bronco, or vintage British roadster can be just as effective at starting conversations and making new friends.

Of course, classic cars can also represent an alternative collectible asset, although financial returns are far from guaranteed. According to Hagerty, which tracks collector-vehicle valuations and market activity, desirability and prices differ considerably across makes, models, generations, and vehicle conditions. Rarity, originality, documented history, and careful maintenance can influence long-term value, but insurance, storage, restoration, and repairs can quickly offset potential appreciation. Perhaps that’s why the most satisfied owners tend to be enthusiasts first and investors second. Unlike a luxury watch hidden beneath a shirt cuff or an expensive painting hanging in a private residence, a classic automobile can be driven, displayed, discussed, and enjoyed with others.

The Takeaway: Today’s ultimate automotive status symbol may not be the newest car in the neighborhood, but the one with the best story to tell.

Thinking About Moving to Europe?

“What Americans should know before making the move.” 

——-

There’s something undeniably appealing about the idea of living in Europe. Perhaps it’s a villa overlooking the Tuscan countryside, a seaside apartment in Portugal, or a charming village in southern France. For Americans considering retirement, a career change, or simply a different pace of life, the possibilities can be exciting. But turning that European daydream into a permanent address requires considerably more planning than booking a vacation.

The first challenge is understanding the rules. According to the European Commission’s immigration guidance, residency requirements for non-European Union citizens vary by country and depend on factors such as employment, family circumstances, and financial resources. Healthcare coverage, property ownership, banking, and the ability to remain beyond a short tourist visit all deserve careful investigation. Taxes can be particularly complicated. The Internal Revenue Service reminds Americans that U.S. citizens generally remain subject to U.S. taxation on worldwide income even while living overseas, although foreign tax credits and certain exclusions may provide relief. Importantly, the foreign earned income exclusion does not generally apply to pensions or investment income.

Fortunately, newcomers don’t have to navigate everything alone. Expatriate communities, relocation specialists, international tax advisers, and local professional networks can provide valuable guidance. From Portugal and Greece to Estonia and Scotland, these resources help prospective residents understand housing markets, immigration procedures, cultural differences, and everyday practicalities. Online communities can also connect newcomers with people who have already made the move. Their firsthand experiences can be especially helpful, although legal and financial decisions should always be confirmed with qualified professionals.

Before making a permanent commitment, consider spending several weeks in your preferred destination, ideally outside the tourist season. Experience the grocery stores, transportation, medical facilities, and daily routines rather than just the restaurants and attractions. After all, there’s a considerable difference between enjoying two wonderful weeks in Tuscany and managing everyday life there twelve months a year.

The Takeaway: Moving to Europe can be a rewarding new chapter, but lifestyle appeal is only part of the equation. Understanding residency requirements, taxation, healthcare, and everyday costs before relocating can help turn an attractive dream into a practical, sustainable reality.